New Livorno coach Gennaro Ruotolo insists they can still beat the drop.

Ruotolo has taken over bottom-of-the-table Livorno this week following the dismissal of Serse Cosmi.

"I accepted the chance to take back the Amaranto bench because I believe in safety," declared Ruotolo.

"We need to play the next decisive match against Udinese with incredible arrogance. We must step on to that field with the maximum determination."

Livorno are propping up the table after picking up just five points from the last 13 Serie A rounds.

"I want to bring my players confidence, desire and also a smile to their faces. I know, I know, the situation is dramatic, but if we are afraid then we've already lost the battle."

He added: "Even if we only have the tiniest sliver of a chance to achieve safety, I want us to gamble with it right to the last second.

"I won't think about what happens after May. I will only say that, if I do well, I'll have a better chance of leading the team into the new season."